When to Use This Message
Send a Reference Request when:
- You're applying for a job and need someone to serve as a professional reference.
- You want to ask a former manager, colleague, or client to vouch for your work.
- You need to confirm someone's willingness before listing them as a reference.
- You want to give them context about the role so they can speak to relevant experience.
Message Writing Tips
- Ask Before Listing Them: Always confirm willingness before including someone's contact details on an application.
- Provide Context About the Role: Briefly describe the position you're applying for, so they can highlight relevant experience.
- Remind Them of Specific Work Together: Mentioning a project or period you worked together helps them recall specifics to mention.
- Mention How and When They Might Be Contacted: Letting them know the likely timeline helps them prepare and respond promptly when contacted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask someone to be a reference without feeling awkward?
Most professional contacts are happy to help — a polite, direct request with context about the role usually gets a positive response.
What if someone declines to be a reference?
Thank them for considering it and ask someone else — it's better to know early than to list someone who isn't fully comfortable vouching for you.
Should I tell my reference what the employer might ask?
It can help to mention the role and key skills relevant to it, so they can prepare relevant examples in advance.